Starting July 1, 2025, the golden ₡500 coins you’ve come to recognize will lose their status as legal tender in Costa Rica. The Central Bank of Costa Rica (BCCR) has announced a replacement: a new, bimetallic ₡500 coin commemorating the historic 200th anniversary of the Annexation of the Partido de Nicoya.
A Tribute to Costa Rican History and Culture
This newly designed coin highlights one of Costa Rica’s most defining moments. In 1824, the region of Nicoya voluntarily chose to join Costa Rica, enriching the nation both culturally and territorially. This pivotal decision created the Guanacaste province, celebrated today with this special edition coin.
Released into circulation on January 20, 2025, the coin’s design pays homage to Nicoya’s peninsula and Guanacaste’s iconic symbols. It features the national Guanacaste tree, a seal honoring indigenous peoples of the North Pacific, and a traditional folkloric woman dressed in a vibrant, intricately embroidered skirt, symbolizing the rich cultural heritage of the region.
Click here to know more about Costa Rica’s beautiful currency designs!
Modern Design Meets Enhanced Security
The new ₡500 coin boasts a cutting-edge bimetallic design. With a silver-toned copper-nickel center surrounded by a gold-colored copper-zinc-nickel alloy ring, the coin is both visually striking and highly durable. It’s also smaller than the current coin, with a diameter of 28 millimeters.
One of its most innovative features is a latent image on the front. Depending on the angle of the coin, the design alternates between the number « 500 » and the initials « BCCR, » ensuring greater protection against counterfeiting.
In honor of the Nicoya Annexation, the phrases « 200 años de la Anexión del Partido de Nicoya 1824 – 2024 » (200 years of the Annexation of Nicoya) and « De la patria por nuestra voluntad » (Of the homeland by our will) are engraved, emphasizing the significance of this milestone for the Costa Rican people.
What Should You Do with Your Old ₡500 Coins?
Transitioning to the new coin will be a gradual process across the national banking network. However, it’s crucial to note that after July 1, 2025, the old ₡500 coins will no longer be accepted as a valid form of payment. Make sure to exchange or deposit them at your local bank before the deadline!
Did you know?
Costa Rica’s currency, the colón, is named after Christopher Columbus (Cristóbal Colón in Spanish) to honor the explorer’s role in linking Europe and the Americas. The colón officially replaced the Costa Rican peso in 1896, reflecting the nation’s modernization efforts in the late 19th century.
Don’t miss your chance to hold a piece of Costa Rica’s vibrant history in your hands!
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